Patterns of Activity and Practice Among Music Educators Concerning Instrumental Music Students with Disabilities

Carrie Ann Delaney

Advisor: Lisa A. Billingham, School of Music

Committee Members: Brian C. Wuttke, Frederick Brigham, Linda A. Schwartzstein

Enterprise Hall, #318
March 28, 2016, 09:00 AM to 06:00 AM

Abstract:

This study sought to discover what types of sources/materials music educators and administrators are accessing to ensure success when working with students with disabilities. The design of this project consisted of a mixed method survey distributed to band directors and music administrators (N = 31) that was both quantitative and qualitative in design, consisting of both direct and open-ended questions.

The research sought to find (a.) what educational modifications or adaptations teachers are currently using in the classroom, (b.) where the educator has learned these practices (e.g.- through classwork or articles in research/practitioner journals), and (c.) how involved the music educator is with the student’s Individualized Educational Plan (IEP) committee and special education staff. A secondary purpose of this study was to discover what types of information and materials may still be necessary to effectively work with students with disabilities in instrumental music programs.

Findings of this study show that inconsistencies in teacher training, along with the level of support and involvement with the special education staff are still seen within instrumental music teachers working with students with disabilities.  A linear regression analysis was run ex post facto to determine if the varying levels in teacher training, number of years teaching, or the level of support that band directors receive from the special education staff would lead to increased feelings of comfort when working with students with disabilities. Findings show that taking at least one class during college dealing with the topic of working with students with disabilities has a positive impact on the teacher’s comfort level (t = 2.264, df = 29, p < .031) more than any other outside factor.

Teachers are using a variety of “best practices” or modifications/adaptations learned from classes, literature, or from personal study to work with their students with disabilities. Findings indicate that educators are putting the research available into practice. Though teachers are implementing various teaching practices to assist their disabled students in the classroom, this study discovered that there is still a need for materials, both literary and technological, to help provide the greatest level of support for their students.